Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has hailed the removal of fuel subsidies by the federal government as a positive development for state governments, citing increased revenue allocations as a major benefit.
Speaking during an inspection of projects to mark the first anniversary of his second term, Uzodimma described the policy as a “direct blessing” that has allowed state governments to channel more resources into infrastructure development and improving ease of doing business.
“In reconciling the negative effects of the fuel subsidy removal and the benefits in terms of socio-infrastructure, social benefits, and the ease of doing business occasioned by the provision of the enabling infrastructure, I think it is a blessing,” he said.
The governor urged state governments to justify the increased funds by delivering visible development projects for their citizens.
Governor Uzodimma’s remarks align with those made by Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, who previously called on Nigerians to hold their state governors accountable for the improved revenue resulting from subsidy removal.
During an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Sule stated that while subsidy removal and the floating of the naira were tough economic decisions, they have significantly boosted allocations to states and local governments.
“Instead of just looking at the federal government, let the people hold every state governor responsible. What are you doing with the improved revenue you are getting?” Sule asked.
He highlighted examples from Nasarawa State, where local government allocations have doubled, enabling them to pay salaries on time and save for other developmental projects.
The fuel subsidy removal, a policy introduced under President Bola Tinubu, remains a controversial reform, but officials maintain that it offers long-term economic benefits by redirecting funds to critical sectors.